Carollers performing a Christmas song on stage. — Photos: CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
A persistent drizzle could not dampen the holiday spirit as carollers turned a Christmas parade into a moving stage of lights and songs in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur.
Walking around the commercial area of Sentul Boulevard with umbrellas in hand, the carollers sang a medley of Christmas songs that overtook the rhythmic patter of the rain.
Two lorries decorated with lights escorted the group as Christmas floats, while several volunteers dressed as Santa Claus handed out candy canes to the public.
The parade was the highlight of the annual Semarak Kasih Christmas celebration at Jalan Amra 2, Sentul Boulevard.
It was organised by Pusat Bantuan Sentul in collaboration with Batu MP P. Prabakaran’s office, supported by 15 churches in the Batu constituency.
Pusat Bantuan Sentul chairman Ngu Chie Kieng said the programme, first initiated in 2019, was in its fourth edition following a three-year break due to the Covid‑19 pandemic.
“The event, themed ‘Glow of Love’, is open to the entire community and offers a meaningful way to bring people together to celebrate Christmas.
“This year, we also contributed school bags and uniforms to 10 underprivileged pupils and students, including some from the refugee community.
Santa Claus handing out gifts to children at the event.
“It is one way to share love with the community.
“This year, volunteers also decorated two floats for the parade,” he said.
The event attracted about 1,500 people and featured a Christmas bazaar with more than 20 stalls selling Christmas goodies, food and beverages, as well as several game stalls.
In the evening, carollers took to the stage and performed Christmas carols for the community.
Prabakaran, in his opening speech, thanked the organising committee for their efforts in making the programme a huge success.
“From obtaining permits from Kuala Lumpur City Hall to various challenges, we managed to bring the programme to fruition.
“We will continue to make sure festive programmes like this will continue to share the love with the people,” he said.
